About Amy Sylla
My Journey of Overcoming Challenges, Embracing Change, and Empowering Others
Born and raised in the South of France, in the sunny town of Hyeres, I grew up with a strong connection to my Senegalese roots. From an early age, I felt drawn to North America and dreamed of living there. Growing up in a predominantly non-Black community, I quickly became aware of unconscious bias and discrimination, whether at school or while searching for internships. At the time, I didn’t have the language to describe it, but I instinctively began advocating for myself—little did I know, this would become a core strength in my future career.
I earned a Master’s in Marketing & Applied Management in Lyon, completing a three-year co-op in the field. After graduation, I pursued my American Dream in Boston, MA, where I worked for four years. I became bilingual, deepened my understanding of American culture, and embraced diverse perspectives. This experience confirmed that North America aligned more closely with my values and ambitions. However, due to visa restrictions, I decided to continue my journey in Toronto, where my career would take unexpected and challenging turns.
As a result, my professional path in North America has been anything but linear—spanning over a decade and marked by visa challenges, the frequent hearing of “You don’t have the Canadian experience!”, roles for which I was often overqualified, company layoffs, periods of unemployment, and career pivots. Though these experiences were difficult and took an emotional toll, leading to self-doubt and imposter syndrome, they also shaped me into a resilient and resourceful individual determined to find my purpose.
Maya Angelou’s poem, "Still I Rise", has always resonated with me. It is more than just a quote; it is a mantra I live by, reminding me to rise above challenges and stay true to my purpose. This conviction led me to seek guidance from inspiring women who mentored and coached me as I embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Through this process, I uncovered my authentic self, tapped into my creativity, and built the confidence needed to manifest opportunities aligned with my values.
In 2020, my story inspired the creation of Brown Sugar Talk—a labor of love, a haven for marginalized voices, and a platform for sparking meaningful conversations on race and culture. This endeavor solidified my commitment to advocacy and launched my public speaking career, attracting the attention of renowned organizations eager to share my story and inspire others to embrace change and advocate for equity.
In 2021, my career evolved organically from digital marketing into the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) sector, where I now provide strategic guidance, foster psychological safety, and support the creation of inclusive and equitable environments where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered to shine. Through this EDI work, my role as a coach naturally emerged, and I have had the privilege of coaching over 20 racialized women and women with disability, guiding them on their journeys toward self-fulfillment and success.
As a multifaceted professional—combining my experience as an EDI Leader, Coach, Public Speaker and Conversation Facilitator—I have aligned my various roles with my commitment to uplifting racialized women, immigrants, and future generations. Today, I am dedicated to guiding them through their transformative journeys, helping them uncover their potential, and empowering them to create the lives they envision.
“My mission is to help marginalized women and my audience turn challenges into opportunities, empowering them to live with purpose and create lasting, positive change.”
My values guide every aspect of my work, shaping my interactions with clients, my approach to personal and professional development, and my commitment to creating a better future for marginalized women. They are rooted in embracing your RACE—Resilience, Authenticity, Community, and Empowerment—because every step you take brings you closer to winning your own RACE.
Resilience: I help you cultivate the strength and adaptability to bounce back from setbacks and transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
Authenticity: I guide you in embracing your true self, allowing you to create a genuine and memorable presence.
Community: I believe in fostering a supportive network, where shared experiences and intersectionalities strengthen us all.
Empowerment: I empower you to take control of your destiny, inspiring positive change and fulfilling your potential.
Why Work with Me: What Sets Me Apart
Certified Expertise: With training and credentials by international bodies in equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), coaching, psychological safety, workplace investigation, and change management, I provide a solid ethical foundation for my work. My expertise enables me to address complex issues with compassion and clarity.
Strategic Marketing Background: Holding a Master’s in Marketing and Management with over 10 years of experience, I excel in developing actionable strategies and communication plans that drive engagement. My ability to analyze data and craft compelling narratives ensures impactful advocacy for EDI initiatives.
Multicultural Insight & Bilingual Advantage: As a French African Black woman and immigrant fluent in French and English, I understand intersectionality deeply and create an inclusive environment where every voice is heard, ensuring effective communication across cultures.
Global Experience: My professional journey across France, the U.S., and Canada enriches my perspective, allowing me to offer valuable international insights that cater to diverse cultural contexts and connect with diverse audiences.
Proven Impact: Recognized both internally and externally for my contributions, I deliver proven results across all my roles. To see testimonials and learn more about my impact through coaching and public speaking, I invite you to explore those dedicated pages.
Meet My Audience
A closer look at the people I empower across the globe:
84%
WOMEN
20%
19-24 YEARS OLD
52%
25-34 YEARS OLD
28%
35-44 YEARS OLD
48%
CANADA
35%
USA
Some Highlights of My Career
Inclusive Leader - Top 3 Finalists
Club Canadien de Toronto (FR) | June 2022/24
The RelèveON Awards celebrate young Francophone professionals under 40 in Ontario. This category recognizes individuals who have made significant strides in advancing diversity and inclusion, especially for women, visible minorities, and the LGBTQ2+ community.
Watch my Finalist Video (in French)
Best Black Employee Resources Group Leader of the Year
BPTN | June 2024
The Obsidi award recognizes ERGs that empower Black professionals through resources, advocacy, and leadership. It celebrates groups that foster professional growth, drive inclusivity, support social justice, and collaborate with leadership to advance diversity and inclusion within their organization.